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Buck & Co Jewellers,
Goldsmiths & Diamond Mounters
Crafted with Excellence
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As we move into February it is time again for birthstone of the month: the beautiful amethyst.
Amethyst has been used in jewellery since antiquity, and during the Greek and Roman period became associated with the god of wine, Dionysus. The name amethyst is derived from the Greek word 'amethystos' meaning 'not drunken'. Drinking goblets were carved out of large amethyst crystals, or drinking vessels were studded with amethyst stones in the belief that it could prevent drunkenness. This belief persists into modern times, with some people believing that when in contact with the skin, an amethyst can cure a hangover.
Amethyst is a crystalline quartz gemstone (Silicon Dioxide), quartz being one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth's crust, which can be found worldwide. Coloured by an impurity of iron, the amethyst is related to other colourful gemstones such citrine, smokey quartz and rose quartz. Amethyst grows in trigonal prismatic crystals, often in geodes which can be cracked open to display the beautiful crystals hidden inside. The purple colouration tends to be darker at the termination (or pointed) end of the crystal, and this is where the finest quality gemstones are cut from.
Amethyst is an excellent and practical choice for wear in jewellery, with a Mohs hardness of 7, and is robust and tough enough to withstand daily wear. However, guard against thermal shock, and be aware that amethyst can fade and lose saturation in strong sunlight. Knocks and blows can also result in conchoidal (or shell-like) fractures which can damage the exterior surface of the stone, and prevent light from travelling internally leading to dullness.
Pictured are some beautiful amethyst pieces of jewellery available for viewings at our shop in Bodmin. Drop in and see us for viewings, or discuss the commission piece of your dreams!
A selection of beautiful amethyst pieces of jewellery available for viewings at our shop in Bodmin.
Birthstone of the Month:
February
This weeks jewellery spotlight falls on this delightful and unusual pair of antique 18ct yellow gold earrings.
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Believed to date from the 1880's these earrings are a fabulous surviving example of Victorian Etruscan revival jewellery. The Etruscans were a civilization centered in central Italy from about 900-300BCE and were famed for their goldwork featuring techniques such as filagree and granulation wrought in high carat yellow gold. Some original examples of this still exist in museums across the world, and this style became fashionable in the Victorian period in elaborate neck pieces, drop style earrings and a revival of gem set signet rings.
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This inspiration was aided by the opening of the railways which made travel to Europe easier. Travellers soaked up the cultures that were exposed by the large numbers of archeological excavations that were taking place at the time. Etruscan and the later Greek and Roman designs became popular not just in jewellery, but also in art and architecture.
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These particular earrings feature filagree wire work in 18ct gold, and have elaborate drops which move gracefully. They are in fabulous condition, and with the many small moving parts are a rare survivor from the period. Viewings are most welcome at our shop in Bodmin. £650.00, reference 682.
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Buck & Co Jewellers is a family-owned business with over 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry. We offer a wide range of services including bespoke designs, repairs and insurance valuations. We are a husband and wife team consisting of a qualified and experienced Jeweller, Diamond Mounter, Gold and Silversmith, and a certified Gemmologist. We take pride in crafting each piece of jewellery with excellence, ensuring that it meets our high standards of quality.
At Buck & Co Jewellers, we offer a personalised service, where your work is carried out in our fully insured workshop located in The Market House Arcade in Bodmin, a Grade II listed building. We have options to suit all budgets and tastes, and offer free consultations to discuss your desired commission work.
